Henry V – a synopsis

The newly crowned Henry V, urged on by the Archbishop of Canterbury who fears impending legislation at home will otherwise rob the Church of its wealth, pursues his claim to the French throne. In response to Henry’s challenge, the Dauphin sends a scornful gift of tennis balls, a reference to Henry’s wayward youth. This only serves to inflame Henry’s ambition. In another part of London, Bardolph, Nym and Pistol, Henry’s former drinking companions, are celebrating the marriage of Pistol to the Hostess of their local tavern when they are interrupted by news that Falstaff – broken-hearted because the King has deserted him – is very ill. After his death, the three men join the army at Southampton. Before embarking for France, Henry sentences to death three treacherous lords, Cambridge, Scroop and Grey. He has already sent an ambassador to Charles VI, King of France, demanding his crown, under penalty of war. The Dauphin thinks Henry an unworthy opponent, but King Charles, who harks back to the Black Prince’s victory and acknowledges that Henry is of that same victorious stock, offers England a compromise, which is rejected.

Arriving in France, the English set siege to Harfleur, and its Governor, realizing the town cannot defend itself, begs mercy and opens the city gates. Princess Katherine has an English lesson from her confidante, Alice, while her father rouses his nobles in retaliation against Henry, who is retreating with his now diminished army. Despite the enfeebled condition of his men, Henry refuses the French Herald’s offer to negotiate terms, and the two armies prepare to fight. Henry, insisting that his soldiers respect French property, has his old friend Bardolph executed for robbing a church. On the night before Agincourt, Henry mingles with his men, disguised as a common soldier. He considers the heavy responsibilities of kingship. In contrast, the French lords gamble on the number of prisoners each will take. At sunrise Henry delivers his rallying St. Crispin's Day speech. During the battle, Henry orders his men to kill their prisoners. The boys guarding the English luggage are massacred by the French. Although Henry’s army is outnumbered five to one, the battle is fought and won with great losses to the French and very few to the English. After sailing home and giving thanks for his victory, Henry returns to the French court. His peace terms, which include the throne of France and the hand of Katherine, are granted. England and France will thus be united in peace.

By Dinah Wood